Despite the development of new impression technique for complete lower dentures, the achievement of adequate retention, support, and stability still remains a definite problem for many patients. Correct extension of the complete lower denture base is not only essential for the development of retentive forces to best advantage, but it is a prerequisite of maximum stability.
But the correct design of the lingual flange of a complete denture continues to challenge the skill and imagination of the dental profession. Owing to limited mobility of the muscles, frena, and membranous attachments, the buccal and labial flanges are more easily n.anaged. unfortunately, the floor of the mouth rises and falls like the tides of the sea, lengthening and widening the protean lingual vestibule.
Therefore, in this article we discussed (1) the anatomy of the lingual space and principles underlying lingual design, (2) a technique for achieving an optimum lingual flange.
If, in the construction of difficult lower dentures, the consideration is given to the dynamic nature of the denture space, it is easier to make satisfactory lower dentures.
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